Verstappen Future Secured at F1 Despite Criticism, Says Domenicali

Bahrain – Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is confident Max Verstappen will remain a central figure in the sport, despite the Red Bull driver’s vocal criticisms of the upcoming 2026 regulations. Domenicali’s reassurance comes after a “very constructive meeting” with the four-time world champion on Wednesday, as Verstappen has publicly expressed concerns that the new cars will fundamentally alter the nature of racing.

Verstappen hasn’t held back in his assessment of the changes, describing the new generation of F1 cars as akin to “Formula E on steroids,” and questioning whether they still represent true Formula 1. He’s characterized the new rules as “anti-racing” and suggested he might reconsider his future in the sport if the cars aren’t enjoyable to drive. His comments sparked a wave of discussion within the paddock, with other drivers echoing his concerns, though none as forcefully.

Domenicali, speaking to media including RacingNews365, acknowledged the initial negativity but urged caution, stating he doesn’t understand the “panic” surrounding the new regulations. He emphasized that it’s still early days in the testing phase and that opinions often evolve as teams and drivers gain more experience with the cars.

“We’ve met with all the drivers,” Domenicali said. “As you know, he is incredible. He has a way of saying something that can sometimes be interpreted in a certain way, but I guarantee to you that Max does care about Formula 1 more than anyone else.”

The F1 CEO highlighted the importance of open dialogue, noting that Verstappen will have further discussions with the FIA to voice his specific concerns and propose solutions. “We had a very constructive meeting, and he will have a very constructive meeting also with the Federation [FIA] to highlight his point of view, and what he believes needs to be done to keep the driving style at the centre without changing, let’s say, the approach.”

Domenicali pointed out that technological advancements inevitably require drivers to adapt their techniques, a pattern that has repeated throughout F1’s history. “We shouldn’t forget that the evolution of the technology behind the cars requires, of course, a different way of driving them. That has happened in the past, and this will happen in the future.”

He anticipates that initial reactions will soften as teams refine their understanding of the new cars and the regulations. “But I can guarantee, and I really, really share the fact that everyone has been very, very constructive, that the comments of the first day are really different from the comments of the third or fourth days of driving, and this will evolve.”

Domenicali believes a more comprehensive assessment will be possible later in the season. “I’m pretty sure that when we sit down together in the middle of the year or at the end of the year, you will see a different picture of comments, a different picture of political debate, because that’s normal in Formula 1.” He drew parallels to the 2021 regulation changes, recalling initial skepticism from technical directors that ultimately proved unfounded.

“When there was a change in 2021, some technical director was saying that the car was slower by six, seven seconds, and that was not the case, and we saw what happened after a couple of years.”

Domenicali stressed his preference for addressing concerns internally and avoiding public debates that could detract from the fan experience. “My style is always to be very prudent, to try to solve things internally because we don’t have to highlight things that are not in the interests of the fans.”

Domenicali expressed unwavering confidence in Verstappen’s continued commitment to Formula 1. “We know that Max will be part of the future of Formula 1. Of course, it’s very important we listen to him, as we are listening to all of the top drivers who are very important in this sport.”

When pressed on the basis for his confidence, Domenicali cited his strong personal relationship with Verstappen. “Because I have a very good relationship with Max, I know him very, very well. I spend a lot of time with him. That’s the reason. Full stop. And he loves Formula 1, there’s no doubt about it.”

The concerns raised by Verstappen and others center on the increased emphasis on energy management in the 2026 cars, due to the greater electrification of the engines. The new regulations require drivers to manage battery charging while racing, potentially slowing them through corners and impacting overtaking opportunities. This has led to criticism that the cars prioritize efficiency over outright speed and driver skill. The FIA and F1 are currently evaluating potential rule tweaks related to energy usage to address these concerns and ensure a competitive and exciting racing spectacle.